35 Simple Chinese Recipes You Can Easily Cook at Home

These homemade Chinese dishes bring authentic takeout flavors to your kitchen without complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

From crispy orange chicken to comforting wonton soup, these recipes use simple methods that deliver restaurant-quality results every time.

01. Tender Mongolian Beef with Green Onions

This version uses sliced beef, soy sauce, brown sugar, and fresh green onions. The meat gets tender while the sauce caramelizes perfectly.

A quick marinade and high-heat cooking create that signature takeout flavor. The green onions add freshness and color to every bite.

This method works great for weeknight dinners when you want something special. Ready in under thirty minutes with amazing results.

02. Silky Eggplant in Rich Garlic Sauce

Fresh eggplant gets cooked until tender in a savory garlic sauce with soy sauce and chicken broth. The eggplant absorbs all those wonderful flavors.

Fresh pressed garlic and chili paste create layers of flavor that beat restaurant versions. The sauce becomes glossy and rich during cooking.

This approach takes about twenty minutes and uses common pantry ingredients. Perfect for vegetable lovers who want bold flavors.

03. Crispy General Tso’s Chicken

Chicken pieces get double-fried for extra crispiness, then tossed in sweet and spicy sauce. This creates the perfect texture contrast everyone loves.

The key technique involves frying twice for maximum crunch. Peanuts or cashews add extra texture while chilies control the heat level.

This version takes more time but creates authentic restaurant results. Great for special dinners when you want to impress guests.

04. Classic Chow Mein with Fresh Vegetables

Soft noodles get stir-fried with chicken, crisp vegetables, and mild seasonings. This creates a balanced dish with subtle, comforting flavors.

The gentle cooking method keeps vegetables crunchy while chicken stays moist and flavorful. Light soy sauce brings everything together perfectly.

This approach works well for families who prefer milder flavors. Ready quickly and uses vegetables you probably have on hand.

05. Traditional Chinese Egg Rolls

This authentic recipe uses cabbage, carrots, ground pork, and traditional seasonings wrapped in egg roll wrappers. Deep frying creates golden, crispy shells.

The filling gets pre-cooked and cooled before wrapping to prevent soggy egg rolls. Proper sealing keeps oil out during frying.

This method follows a three-hundred-year-old family recipe for authentic results. Takes practice but creates restaurant-quality egg rolls at home.

06. Comforting Chinese Lion’s Head Soup

Large pork meatballs simmer in clear broth with vegetables and seasonings. The meatballs stay tender while absorbing the savory broth flavors.

Gentle simmering keeps the meatballs from falling apart while building rich flavor. Fresh vegetables add color and nutrition to every bowl.

This version provides ultimate comfort food for cold winter days. Best served with sticky rice for a complete meal.

07. Silky Egg Drop Soup

Hot chicken broth gets thickened with cornstarch, then beaten eggs create silky ribbons throughout. Green onions add fresh flavor and color.

The key technique involves slowly drizzling beaten eggs into swirling hot broth. This creates those signature egg ribbons without clumps.

This method takes just ten minutes and uses basic pantry ingredients. Perfect for quick lunches or light dinner starters.

08. Perfect Restaurant-Style Fried Rice

Day-old rice gets stir-fried with eggs, vegetables, and soy sauce over high heat. This prevents mushy rice while building great flavor.

Pre-heating the rice alone for five minutes helps grains stay separate and less sticky. Frozen peas and carrots work perfectly.

This approach creates authentic restaurant texture and taste at home. Great way to use leftover rice from previous meals.

09. Crispy Pork and Shrimp Pot Stickers

Ground shrimp and beef get seasoned and wrapped in gyoza wrappers, then pan-fried until golden. This creates crispy bottoms with tender tops.

The filling makes enough for large batches that freeze beautifully for future meals. Steam-frying technique creates perfect texture contrast.

This version takes time but makes lots of dumplings for busy weeknights. Serve with soy sauce or Asian dipping sauce.

10. Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

Fresh shrimp and broccoli get stir-fried in aromatic garlic sauce with soy sauce and seasonings. Quick cooking keeps everything tender-crisp.

Cooking shrimp first in garlic adds extra flavor layers throughout the dish. The sauce coats everything without being heavy.

This method works perfectly for healthy weeknight dinners in under twenty minutes. Tastes just like your favorite takeout order.

11. Orange-Glazed Tofu Stir-Fry

Crispy tofu pieces get tossed in sweet orange sauce with fresh vegetables and seasonings. This creates a vegetarian version of orange beef.

Extra sauce and additional vegetables make this dish more filling and flavorful. The orange glaze caramelizes beautifully during cooking.

This approach offers great plant-based protein with bold flavors. Perfect for meatless Monday dinners that satisfy everyone.

12. Traditional Wonton Soup

Homemade wontons filled with seasoned pork get cooked separately, then served in clear chicken broth. This keeps wontons from getting mushy.

The authentic method involves cooking wontons in boiling water first, then transferring to hot broth. This technique prevents cloudy soup.

This version follows traditional Chinese methods for restaurant-quality results. Takes practice but creates incredibly satisfying comfort food.

13. Spicy Sichuan Ma Po Tofu

Soft tofu simmers in spicy sauce with ground pork, fermented black beans, and Sichuan peppercorns. This creates complex, numbing heat.

The sauce builds layers of flavor with garlic, ginger, and chili paste. Gentle cooking keeps tofu intact while absorbing flavors.

This method creates authentic Sichuan flavors that beat restaurant versions. Perfect for adventurous eaters who love bold spices.

14. Crispy Tofu Peanut Stir-Fry

Cubed tofu gets pan-fried until golden and crispy, then tossed with peanuts and vegetables in savory sauce. This creates perfect texture contrast.

The cooking method creates crunchy exterior while keeping tofu soft inside. Peanuts add richness and satisfying crunch throughout.

This approach converts tofu skeptics with amazing flavors and textures. Great introduction for families trying plant-based proteins.

15. Marinated Chinese Chicken Wings

Chicken wings marinate overnight in soy sauce, rice wine, and spices, then get grilled or baked. This creates deeply flavored, tender wings.

The marinade uses common pantry ingredients to create complex flavors without overpowering the chicken. Fresh ginger adds extra complexity.

This method works great for parties or casual dinners with impressive results. Easy preparation makes it perfect for busy schedules.

16. Classic Kung Pao Chicken

Diced chicken gets stir-fried with peanuts, vegetables, and spicy sauce with Sichuan peppercorns. This creates the perfect balance of flavors.

High-heat cooking keeps chicken tender while vegetables stay crisp and colorful. The sauce coats everything without being too heavy.

This version rivals restaurant quality and takes less than thirty minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something special.

17. Simple Lo Mein Noodles

Spaghetti noodles get tossed with soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, honey, and crisp vegetables. This creates an easy side dish everyone loves.

The simple sauce uses pantry staples to create authentic flavors quickly. Add leftover cooked meat to make it a complete meal.

This approach works perfectly for using up leftover vegetables and proteins. Ready in fifteen minutes with minimal cleanup required.

18. Sweet and Spicy Sesame Chicken

Battered chicken pieces get fried until crispy, then coated in sweet sesame sauce with chili flakes. This creates restaurant-favorite flavors at home.

The sauce balances sweet honey with spicy heat and nutty sesame oil perfectly. Adding broccoli makes it a more balanced meal.

This method creates one of the most popular takeout dishes at home. Great for special dinners when you want to impress.

19. Classic Beef and Broccoli

Sliced beef gets stir-fried with fresh broccoli in savory brown sauce with garlic and ginger. This creates the ultimate comfort food combination.

The traditional cooking method keeps beef tender while broccoli stays bright green and crisp. Classic seasonings create familiar, satisfying flavors.

This approach follows restaurant techniques for perfect results every time. Ready quickly and uses ingredients available at any grocery store.

20. Chinese BBQ Pork (Char Siu)

Pork tenderloin marinates in sweet soy sauce, honey, and five-spice, then gets roasted until caramelized. This creates glossy, flavorful meat.

The marinade balances sweet and savory flavors while rice wine vinegar adds brightness. Grilling creates beautiful char and smoky flavor.

This version takes time but creates impressive results for special occasions. The marinade works equally well for grilling or roasting.

21. Traditional Almond Cookies

These dim sum-style cookies use almond extract, butter, and whole almonds for authentic flavor and texture. Simple ingredients create complex taste.

The traditional method creates cookies with crispy edges and tender centers. Whole almonds on top add visual appeal and extra crunch.

This approach follows old family recipes for authentic dim sum restaurant flavors. Perfect ending to any Chinese meal at home.

22. Quick Cashew Chicken

Leftover grilled chicken gets stir-fried with cashews, vegetables, and savory sauce for quick weeknight dinners. This uses up leftover proteins perfectly.

The smoky flavor from grilled chicken adds something special to this simple recipe. Cashews provide richness and satisfying crunch.

This method works great for busy families who want homemade meals quickly. Ready in fifteen minutes with minimal prep work.

23. Hong Kong Honey Walnut Shrimp

Battered shrimp gets fried until golden, then tossed with candied walnuts and creamy sauce. This creates popular dim sum restaurant flavors.

The technique involves frying shrimp and preparing candied walnuts separately before combining. Cornstarch works better than wheat flour for coating.

This version works as main dish or appetizer for special occasions. Takes more effort but creates impressive restaurant-quality results.

24. Silky Hong Kong Egg Tarts

Buttery pastry shells hold smooth custard filling made with eggs, milk, and sugar. These create classic dim sum dessert flavors.

The delicate custard sets perfectly during baking while pastry stays flaky and tender. Temperature control prevents curdling or cracking.

This approach creates authentic dim sum bakery results at home. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to three days.

25. Spicy Hot and Sour Soup

This warming soup combines mushrooms, tofu, and eggs in spicy-sour broth with white pepper and rice vinegar. Complex flavors create comfort food.

Dried shiitake and oyster mushrooms work well when traditional ingredients aren’t available. Extra rice vinegar increases the signature sour taste.

This method creates restaurant-quality soup with readily available ingredients. Perfect for cold days when you want something warming.

26. Steamed Fish with Fresh Ginger

Whole fish gets steamed with ginger, scallions, and light soy sauce for healthy, authentic flavors. This cooking method keeps fish incredibly moist.

Gentle steaming preserves delicate fish texture while ginger adds aromatic flavor without overpowering. Very traditional and healthy cooking method.

This approach creates authentic Asian-style fish that reminds people of childhood memories. Healthy option that takes minimal preparation time.

27. Fiery Szechwan Shrimp

Shrimp gets stir-fried with vegetables in spicy sauce loaded with red pepper flakes and Sichuan seasonings. This creates serious heat levels.

Quick cooking keeps shrimp tender while vegetables stay crisp and colorful. Double the sauce recipe for extra flavor and serving over rice.

This version works perfectly for heat lovers but reduce peppers for sensitive palates. Fast, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner option.

28. Quick Sesame Beef

Sliced beef marinates in sesame oil and soy sauce, then gets quickly stir-fried until tender. This creates restaurant flavors with minimal effort.

The marinade can be prepared hours ahead or overnight for deeper flavor. Reserve half the marinade for serving as sauce.

This method works great for busy weeknights when you want something special quickly. Serve over rice or noodles for complete meals.

29. Homemade Fortune Cookies

Thin batter gets baked into crispy circles, then quickly shaped while warm with custom fortune messages inside. This creates personalized desserts.

The key technique involves working quickly while cookies are still warm and pliable. Custom fortunes make these extra special for parties.

This approach lets you create personalized messages for special occasions. Fun project that completes any homemade Chinese meal perfectly.

30. Crispy Fried Ice Cream

Ice cream balls get coated in crushed cereal or cookies, then quickly deep-fried for crispy exterior. This creates amazing temperature and texture contrast.

The secret involves freezing coated ice cream balls for several hours before frying. Quick frying time prevents melting while creating crispy coating.

This version creates impressive restaurant dessert at home with simple techniques. Make sure everything stays frozen until serving time.

31. Savory Green Onion Pancakes

Simple dough gets rolled thin with green onions, then pan-fried until golden and crispy. These create perfect sides for soaking up sauces.

The layering technique creates flaky texture while green onions add fresh flavor throughout. Extra onion powder boosts the savory taste.

This method works great for making double batches to freeze for later meals. Light option that complements heavier main dishes perfectly.

32. Family-Style Chicken Fried Rice

Leftover rice gets stir-fried with chicken, frozen mixed vegetables, and scrambled eggs over high heat. This creates kid-friendly flavors everyone loves.

Using frozen vegetables makes preparation quick and easy while adding nutrition and color. High heat prevents rice from getting mushy.

This approach works perfectly for families with young children who love fried rice. Quick dinner solution using common ingredients.

33. Sweet Honey Sesame Chicken

Battered chicken gets deep-fried until golden, then coated in honey sesame sauce with Asian flavors. This skips takeout with homemade results.

The sweet and zesty sauce balances honey with rice vinegar and sesame oil perfectly. Green onion garnish adds fresh color and flavor.

This version creates popular restaurant dish at home with simple techniques. Great for special dinners when you want to impress guests.

34. Classic Sweet and Sour Chicken

Crispy chicken pieces get tossed in tangy sauce with pineapple, bell peppers, and onions. This creates the perfect balance of flavors.

The sauce combines sweet pineapple juice with rice vinegar for authentic sweet-sour taste. Colorful vegetables add nutrition and visual appeal.

This approach creates family-favorite flavors that even create great leftovers for lunch. Easy preparation with impressive, restaurant-quality results.

35. Crispy Crab Rangoon

Cream cheese and crab mixture gets wrapped in wonton wrappers, then baked or deep-fried until golden. This creates popular appetizer flavors.

Both baking and deep-frying methods work well, though deep-frying creates extra crunch. Proper sealing prevents filling from leaking out.

This version works perfectly for parties or as special dinner starters. Always popular with guests who love creamy, crispy combinations.

Final Thoughts

These thirty-five Chinese recipes prove that authentic flavors don’t require complicated techniques or specialty ingredients from Asian markets.

Start with simpler dishes like fried rice or egg drop soup, then work up to more complex recipes as your confidence grows.